pasto

Pasto, officially San Juan de Pasto, is a city in southwestern Colombia and the capital of the Nariño Department. It is situated in the Andean highlands at an elevation of about 2,500 meters above sea level, in the valley of the Pasto River. The climate is cool year-round, with a temperate highland character and distinct wet and dry seasons.

The city lies near the active Galeras volcano and is surrounded by natural areas such as Laguna de La Cocha, a highland lake that hosts migratory birds and serves as a regional ecological site. This setting gives Pasto a mix of urban life and accessible natural scenery, attracting visitors for both culture and nature.

Pasto was established in the 16th century by Spanish colonizers and developed as an administrative and commercial center in the southern Andes. It remains the principal urban center of the department and supports a population that includes both urban residents and people from nearby rural areas.

Culturally, the city is known for the Carnaval de Negros y Blancos, held in January, which has been recognized by UNESCO as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity. The historic center features colonial-era churches, plazas, and markets that reflect its architectural and social evolution.

The economy rests on commerce, services, and agriculture from the surrounding valley, including fruits and coffee production. Pasto hosts the main campus of the Universidad de Nariño and several other higher education institutions. It is connected by road networks and served by a regional airport, supporting domestic travel and regional exchanges.